Belgian Grand Prix 2008 - Race Schedule and Countdown

The Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps erupted into one of the most controversial races in Formula 1 history, with Lewis Hamilton initially crossing the line first ahead of Felipe Massa, only to be penalized 25 seconds after the race and relegated to third place behind Nick Heidfeld. The incident, involving Hamilton passing Kimi Räikkönen by cutting the Bus Stop chicane in wet conditions before being overtaken back by the Ferrari into La Source, sparked furious debate about the rules and left Hamilton devastated while handing Massa a crucial victory.

The race unfolded in typical Spa fashion with changing weather conditions that tested every driver's skill and judgment. Hamilton, starting from pole, battled wheel-to-wheel with Räikkönen in treacherous wet conditions during the closing laps. The pivotal moment came when Hamilton attempted a pass on Räikkönen at the Bus Stop chicane, cutting the corner and appearing to gain an advantage. Hamilton immediately lifted off to let Räikkönen back past before attacking again and passing the Ferrari into La Source on the next corner. Moments later, Räikkönen crashed out, and Hamilton went on to take the checkered flag.

However, race stewards investigated the incident and determined that Hamilton had not sufficiently relinquished the advantage gained by cutting the chicane, despite letting Räikkönen back past. They handed Hamilton a 25-second penalty hours after the race, promoting Massa to victory and Heidfeld to second, with Hamilton classified third. McLaren was furious, arguing Hamilton had followed the regulations, while Ferrari believed justice had been served. The controversial decision dominated headlines for weeks and added another dramatic chapter to the intense Hamilton-Massa championship battle. Massa's inherited victory extended his points lead, but the manner of the result left a bitter taste and sparked calls for clearer racing regulations.